While reading through Joelie Hancock's and Susan Hill's Literature based reading programs at work (Heinemann Educational Books, Inc., 1987), we came across the following quote that delineates the importance of poetry in education.

Poetry has the pride of place in my literature-based reading program for several reasons. First, I believe that poetry is the best language that is available and therefore children should engage with it. Second, poetry can excite a positive response to written language and therefore facilitate reading and writing. Third, poetry is a sadly neglected area of literature.

While poetry may be difficult to introduce in the classroom - music is not, especially music with a contemporary style. Our music engages children while it teaches them classic children's poetry at the same time.

One of our pieces, "Dilliki, Dolliki, Dinah", a five minute - fourteen verse early 20th century poem by Laura Richards, Julia Ward Howe's daughter, was used by a fifth grade teacher at Cranston Calvert School in Newport, RI. Mrs. Fox's class staged a production of the piece and the children memorized the poem in its entirety for the performance, which included props and costumes. Children of all backgrounds were involved - and their enthusiasm was evident during the show.

Our music can be used to introduce children to poetry - as a bridge to teach them an appreciation of how rewarding reading poetry can be.

"I have always loved poetry - it's rhyme, rhythm, wisdom, stories and humor. Within the last two years, I have worked to combine music with some of my favorite childhood poems, resulting in the album, "Fun Songs for Tadpoles to Frogs"." - Terry Grosvenor, composer. Terry has four children 5-12 who participate as consultants, critics and a lively audience for her music.

THE NEWPORT DAILY NEWS, Newport, RI reports:

...Newport Parents Terry and Rick Grosvenor have gone treasure hunting and unearthed a wealth of tadpoles, frogs, lobsters and pirates...The 14 songs are intended as a cultural antidote to much of the musical message bombarding kids today,...The Grosvenors say they want their music to be a force of hope for children as well as adults who hear it. "I really want my music to uplift people," Terry said...If sales of "Tadpoles" tapes is any indication, that message is spreading. The tapes are selling well in Newport and throughout other New England states..."

The tape is 45 minutes long and contains 14 selections, 12 poetry based selections and 2 completely original songs. All the music is child appropriate and is enjoyed by children from preschool to preteen. Our album is digitally mastered in stereo on chrome tape for low noise and high quality. It can be played on any compact cassette tape player.